Richard Branson Says Necker Island Completely Devastated by Hurricane Irma

Posted on September 8, 2017

Hurricane Irma was a category five hurricane with maximum sustained wind gusts of 185 mph when it crossed over Richard Branson's Necker Island resort. Branson says the entire island was completely devastated by the hurricane. Branson also says there is devastation on Moskito Island and the surrounding area in the British Virgin Islands.

In an update on the virgin.com site, Branson says he and his team survived the incredible storm in a concrete cellar which "very, very fortunately" held firm and protected them from the storm. They saw the island-wide destruction when they emerged from the bunker.

Branson says, "I have never seen anything like this hurricane. Necker and the whole area have been completely and utterly devastated. We are still assessing the damage, but whole houses and trees have disappeared. Outside of the bunker, bathroom and bedroom doors and windows have flown 40 feet away. I’m speaking these words from a satellite phone that is just about working, but all other communications are down."

He also gave a warning to those still in Irma's path, which includes residents of Cuba and Florida. Branson says, "For those who are still in the path of Hurricane Irma, and Hurricane Jose to come, I cannot emphasise enough how important it is to put safety first and prepare as strongly as possible. Having seen first-hand the power of this storm, please ensure you stay inside, ideally in organised shelters or other solid concrete structures with water, supplies and emergency contact plans."



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